Definition

A meningioma is a tumor of the protective lining of the brain and spinal cord. This lining is called the meninges. Most meningiomas are benign (noncancerous), though some may be malignant (cancerous). Benign meningiomas are generally slow growing. This type of tumor may not cause problems. But, if the meningioma grows, it can compress important parts of the brain or cause symptoms (eg, vision problems, seizures).

Malignant meningiomas (also called aggressive or anaplastic) are less common. These tumors are faster growing. They often cause problems and can cause some swelling in the brain. Often both benign and malignant meningiomas require some form of therapy, surgery, and/or radiotherapy depending upon location.

Meningioma

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Causes

The exact cause of meningiomas is unknown. However, there are a few theories under study. These include:

• Certain hormones may increase the growth of meningiomas.
• Radiation exposure, especially to the face, can increase the risk of developing meningiomas.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

Risk factors for meningioma include:

• Sex: twice as common in women than men
• Age: 40-70
• History of breast cancer]]> or sarcoma, as part of the Li-Fraumeni syndrome
• A diagnosis of ]]>neurofibromatosis]]> type 2
• Having received radiation to the face as a child (for ]]>acne]]> , warts, or fungal infections)

Symptoms

Symptoms of meningioma are usually related to the area of the brain that is affected. Often the symptoms are caused by increased pressure within the skull, from blockage or inflammation. Symptoms may include:

• Headaches
• Vomiting
• Visual problems
• Changes in behavior
• Seizures]]>
• Pain
• Loss of sensation or weakness in the arms and legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Slurred speech (if tumor is on the left side of the brain)
• Loss of coordination and memory loss (if tumor is in the temporal lobe)
• Difficulty writing (if tumor is in the parietal lobe)

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. You will also be given a neurologic test to assess your motor skills. Other tests may include:

• CT scan]]> —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of the inside of the body, in this case the head
• ]]>MRI scan]]> —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of the inside of the body, in this case the head
• ]]>Angiogram]]> —the injection of a special dye to highlight blood vessels in the brain
• ]]>Electroencephalogram (EEG)]]> —a test that records the brain's activity by measuring electrical currents through the brain
• Blood tests—Recently, a blood test has been reported to be available that may assist in the detection of meningiomas.

MRI of Meningioma in the Brain

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Treatment

Treatment will depend on whether the tumor is malignant or benign, the size and position of the tumor, as well as your general health. The main types of treatment for meningiomas are:

Prevention

There are no guidelines for the prevention of meningiomas.